Quick Tips To Improve Your Interview Skills

Quick Tips to Improve Your Interview Skills

A great resume is the foundation of a successful job application, but your ability to present yourself well at the interview can really determine whether or not you receive the offer.

Being interviewed is challenging for so many of us because it’s a situation in which we’re not used to talking about ourselves and our strengths.  Many people fear that they are being boastful, or as if they’re bragging, and that fear of making a negative impression impacts their confidence.

Here are a few tips you can use to improve your interview performance.

Practice What You Need To Say

You will need to be able to speak confidently and concisely about what you’ve done in the past, your particular accomplishments, and why you would make a great fit for the job.  

As the old saying goes, “practice makes perfect”, so take the time to practice your pitch. You will find that if you do, it will help you to speak confidently, clearly, and ensure you’re not flustered in trying to get your point across.

Remember It's A Two-Way Conversation

Too often people treat the interview as strictly being there to respond to questions.  However, it’s important to treat the interview as a two-way conversation.  Really, the interview is just as much an opportunity for you to find out if this is the right place for you.

In addition, if you aren’t prepared to ask questions, you run the risk of the interviewer assuming you aren’t interested or haven’t prepared.

Ask thoughtful questions, for example, about the job requirements, the most important qualities for someone to excel in this role, the company’s values and vision.

First impressions are everything in the job application process, and that holds true in the interview. Take the time to practice responding to typical interview questions, and be prepared to ask questions that show your interest and alignment with the job opportunity.